Introduction to Military Views on Liberal Thought

Prior to exploring the military's views on liberal thought, it's important to dispel the notion that a large majority of military individuals are fervently conservative and unwelcoming to all forms of liberal ideology. While there may be reservations or biases, many aspects of liberal thought are actually gaining sympathy within the military ranks, particularly among enlisted personnel.

The Nuances of Military Ideology

While one might assume that the military is broadly conservative, recent observations suggest that this is not the case. The United States military, despite its traditions, has evolved to embody certain conservative values that go beyond mere political affiliation. These values often reflect a dedication to truth and scientific integrity, which can be misperceived as liberal priniciples.

For instance, the military is not conservative in the Trumpian or Republican sense. Unlike current political leaders who may deny scientific facts or historical truths, the military is committed to adhering to reality and science. This stands in stark contrast to the stance of many Republicans who frequently reject climate change and creationism.

Conservative Values in the Military

The military's commitment to caring, particularly through its socialized healthcare system, is often seen as a conservative value. This system, the largest of its kind in the U.S., is designed to ensure that all service members receive the medical care they need without the burden of private insurance. This reflects a social responsibility and caring that aligns with conservative principles.

Moreover, the military operates on a framework of gradual change and stability, rather than radical transformation. This is in opposition to the dramatic and revolutionary changes proposed by current Republican leaders, thus aligning more with the conservative ethos of stability and continuity.

It is also worth noting that the military is a diverse community, with a mix of liberal and conservative individuals. Military personnel are often characterized by their dedication to duty and the constitution, which many view as deeply conservative values. However, this does not mean that their political views are uniformly conservative.

Enlisted vs. Officers: Differences in Political Views

There may be differences in the political views between enlisted personnel and officers. Officers, who often have more formal education and opportunities for leadership roles, might be more inclined to align with liberal values on certain issues. However, it's less likely that enlisted personnel, who are typically directly involved in combat operations, would be hostile to liberal ideas that promote inclusivity and humanitarian principles.

For example, it would be rare to find an enlisted person who supports the idea of a draft dodger criticizing war heroes. The military is deeply rooted in the values of respecting and honoring those who serve. Criticizing or undermining war heroes, even those who may have defected, is generally met with a mix of disappointment and severe criticism within the military community.

Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

Overall, the notion that the military is overwhelmingly conservative and unwelcoming to liberal thought is not entirely accurate. While there are elements of the military that may feel uncomfortable with certain liberal ideologies, many aspects of liberal thought are gaining acceptance and support, especially among enlisted personnel.

The U.S. military, with its emphasis on truth, science, and social responsibility, is more accurately described as conservative in the traditional sense, much like the values espoused by past leaders such as Ronald Reagan and Dwight Eisenhower. This contrasts with the hardline conservatism of the current Republican leadership.

It's important to recognize that military personnel, like any segment of society, encompass a wide range of political perspectives. Their primary loyalty is to the mission and the constitution, not partisan politics. For those critical of how the military is used by the government, it is still true that military people, as a group, exhibit a level of honesty and decency that is commendable.